gik1棘
Jyutpinggik1
Yalegīk
Definition
To be stuck, blocked, or unable to move.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
Focuses specifically on physical obstruction or being caught in a tight spot. It is frequently used with the aspect marker 咗 or the reduplicated form 棘住棘住 to emphasize a persistent, annoying sensation of being unable to move or pass through.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin word for spicy, which is also written as 棘 in some contexts but pronounced differently and carries a completely different meaning in Cantonese.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
